Less than a week after Barrow AFC believed a deal for centre-back Sam Graham was done and dusted, the teenager has signed for National League rivals Notts County.

The 18-year-old, who featured in two of the Bluebirds' pre-season friendlies, has joined the Magpies on a seson-long youth loan from Premier League club Sheffield United.

AFC manager Ian Evatt had made plans to include Graham in his squad for last Saturday's season opener at Wrexham, only to be informed late in his preparations that his target was heading elsewhere.

The son of former middleweight boxer Herol Graham had previously spent time on loan from the Blades at FC Halifax Town, Oldham Athletic and Australian A-League side Central Coast Mariners.

Graham can't wait to test himself in the National League again, telling Notts County's website: "I'm looking forward to the physicality because that's my main attribute.

"I'll work hard and do what I do best - which is defend - and try to play a little as well. 

"I've gained experience over the last two years playing men's football and that should stand me in good stead for the coming season."

Graham played in the friendlies against Workington and Lancaster City as a trialist last month, opening the scoring in the latter with a neat finish from fellow Sheffield United youngster Oliver Greaves' cross.